modern-classic-review-of-elektron-digitone

The Elektron Digitone II: A Modern Classic

The Elektron Digitone has long been a favorite among synth enthusiasts for its unique blend of power and versatility. With its four tracks and eight voices of polyphony, it offered a robust platform for creating intricate, multi-layered compositions. However, some users found its capabilities limiting, particularly in the realm of percussion sounds. As a result, many musicians relegated their Digitone to a corner, treating it more like a traditional desktop synth than the innovative groovebox it was designed to be.

Enter the Elektron Digitone II, the highly-anticipated successor to the original model. Boasting 16 voices spread across 16 tracks, this new iteration promises to address some of the limitations that held back its predecessor. In addition to a significant increase in voice count, the Digitone II introduces three new synth engines that promise to expand its sonic palette. One of the most exciting additions is a dedicated percussion engine, designed to deliver punchy, dynamic drum sounds that were sorely lacking in the original model. However, with these upgrades comes a higher price tag, with the Digitone II retailing at $999 compared to the original model’s current market value of around $350.

A Closer Look at the Sound

Despite the enhancements and new features, the Elektron Digitone II manages to retain the beloved four-operator FM engine that made its predecessor so popular. While some purists may argue that the original Digitone had a touch more grit and character, in practice, the differences are negligible. In fact, when comparing presets designed for the original model with those on the Digitone II, the sonic differences are practically indiscernible. It’s worth noting, however, that presets created on the Digitone II are not compatible with the original model, due to some underlying technical disparities. Nonetheless, in terms of sound quality, the Digitone II holds its own against its predecessor.

The Real Game Changer: New Synth Engines

Where the Elektron Digitone II truly shines is in its introduction of three new synth engines, each offering a distinct sonic character. In addition to the familiar FM engine, now referred to as FM Tone, users can explore FM Drum for enhanced percussion sounds, Wavetone for phased distortion and wavetable synthesis, and Swarmer for rich, layered tones ideal for leads and organs. These new engines significantly broaden the creative possibilities for musicians, allowing for a wider range of sounds and textures.

Many of the standout presets on the Digitone II showcase the capabilities of the Wavetone engine, which excels at recreating classic electro and Krautrock sounds with a modern twist. The versatility and depth of the new synth engines make the Digitone II a compelling choice for producers and performers looking to push the boundaries of electronic music.

In Conclusion

The Elektron Digitone II represents a significant evolution of an already beloved instrument, offering enhanced capabilities and a more expansive sonic palette. While the higher price point may give some users pause, the improvements and new features make it a worthy investment for those seeking a versatile and powerful synthesizer. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a budding musician, the Elektron Digitone II promises to inspire creativity and elevate your music to new heights.